Manchester's Canals

Before moving to Manchester I was told it was an industrial city, but following the canals showed me a different story. It is one of the best ways to get to know the other side of Manchester.

Starting off on Oxford St between B6469 & Great Bridgewater St, you will find access down a short set of stairs to a pathway that follows the Rochdale Canal Towpath. When in Manchester Piccadilly, cross over to the Ashton Canal Towpath.

The walk can be as long as you want; I did it up to the Guide Bridge train station. It is amazing what one can find if you just drift away off Oxford Road and Printworks.

At first sight, Manchester's Canals appear to be dirty and dingy, but once you leave Manchester Piccadilly station and reach the Piccadilly Village, you'll find yourself in a whole new Manchester; one that will carry you all the way to Amsterdam, Bruges and even Hamburg.

Manchester or Amsterdam?

Being in contact with nature is only a couple of minutes away. The canal is filled with tiny fish and Canadian ducks and surrounded by old architecture. This completely transports you to another place.